Living a Creative Life in 2026
As we barrel into 2026, I’ve been reflecting on what it really means to live a creative life. Not just to make art or meet deadlines, but to build a lifestyle that nurtures imagination, curiosity, and joy — every single day.
For me, creativity isn’t just what I do; it’s how I see the world. It’s in the way I notice the morning light on gum leaves here in Perth, or how a passing conversation sparks a new story idea. It’s in those quiet hours drawing in Procreate, or sketching character ideas while the kettle boils. Living creatively means staying open — to inspiration, to change, and to possibility.
Embracing Digital and Real-World Balance
In 2026, so much of my creative work still happens on the iPad — in Procreate, designing picture book illustrations, or sketching concepts for new projects. But I’ve learned that to keep my digital art fresh, I need real-world fuel. Walks, books, gallery visits, conversations, even gardening — all of it fills the creative tank.
Technology is incredible, but imagination still starts in the human heart. Balancing screen time with sensory time helps me stay connected to what truly inspires art: lived experience.
Creative Habits That Stick
Living a creative life also means building habits that support it. I no longer wait for the perfect conditions — I carve out small, meaningful windows for creativity. Ten minutes sketching before work. A quick colour study after dinner. A Sunday morning experiment with a new Procreate brush.
Creativity is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger (and more natural) it feels.
Staying Curious in a Changing World
The creative world is evolving faster than ever — with new tools, trends, and opportunities emerging all the time. I’m excited by that! But I’ve also learned to stay anchored in my “why.” I don’t need to chase every new trend; I just need to keep creating what feels true.
Curiosity keeps creativity alive — it helps me experiment, learn, and adapt without losing my sense of self as an illustrator and storyteller.
Community and Collaboration
In 2026, I want to keep deepening creative community — connecting with other illustrators, teachers, readers, and dreamers. Creativity thrives when it’s shared. Whether it’s a classroom using one of my free picture book resources, a fellow artist drawing from one of my prompts, or a parent reading my book at bedtime — that connection keeps me motivated.
Hope and Creativity Go Hand in Hand
More than anything, living a creative life is an act of hope. Every time we draw, write, paint, or make something new, we’re believing in the possibility of beauty, joy, and change.
For me, creativity has always been tied to optimism — the belief that small things matter. A single illustration can spark laughter, comfort, or curiosity. And in 2026, that feels more important than ever.
Here’s to another year of hopeful, creative living. ✨
Hey, there! I’m Jasmine Berry, a freelance illustrator based in sunny Perth, Western Australia. Most days you’ll find me sketching away on my iPad or surrounded by pencils and cats, chasing new ideas. I like to think of myself as eternally optimistic—always seeing the fun, the colour, and the possibility in every project I take on. Send me a message if you would like to collaborate on a project.